Understanding the NDIS
NDIS Eligibility Declined? How to Understand and Review the Decision
An access decision that says you are not eligible can be difficult to receive. Read the reasons carefully, check the evidence considered and note the review deadline before deciding what to do next.
Read the decision letter and identify the exact reason
The letter should say what decision was made and why. Identify which access requirement the NDIA says was not met: age, residence, disability or early intervention. A refusal may relate to missing information, a finding about permanence, the functional impact of an impairment, or whether early intervention requirements apply.
Do not start by sending every report you have. First compare the letter with the evidence you submitted. Note what the NDIA relied on, what it says is missing, and whether you think information was misunderstood or is now outdated. If the explanation is unclear, contact the NDIA and ask them to explain the reasons and relevant evidence.
Check whether the decision can be reviewed and note the deadline
Eligibility decisions are generally reviewable. Not every NDIA decision is; the NDIA’s review guide lists decisions that can and cannot be reviewed. The current published guidance says to request an internal review within three months of receiving the decision in writing. Mark the date now and keep proof of when you lodged the request.
If the deadline is close, contact the NDIA promptly rather than waiting until every new report is ready. Ask whether you can lodge the request and provide additional information later. The NDIA may request extra information and its current guidance says you may have up to 28 days to provide it, with the option to ask for more time.
This article is not legal advice. If the decision has serious consequences or a deadline has passed, contact a disability advocate or legal service for advice about your options.
How to request an internal review
An internal review is a second look by a different NDIA staff member. You can use the NDIA’s review request form or contact the NDIA using the methods shown in its current guidance. State the decision you want reviewed and the outcome you are seeking.
Explain why you think the decision should change. Be specific: identify the requirement, describe what information supports it, and point to any part of the decision letter you believe is incorrect or incomplete. You can explain that you will provide additional evidence if you need time to obtain it.
Keep the request clear and focused. For example: “The letter says my impairment is not permanent. My specialist’s report dated [date] explains the treatment history, expected course and why further treatment is unlikely to substantially improve function. Please reconsider this finding.” Replace the example with your own facts; do not copy it if it does not fit.
Prepare evidence that answers the reason for refusal
Evidence should respond to the access requirement in question. For disability requirements, useful evidence describes the impairment, permanence or likely duration, treatment history, and functional impact across relevant everyday activities. A diagnosis alone may not explain how the person’s functioning is affected.
Ask a treating professional to address the NDIA’s specific reason, use current observations and explain any gaps. If the condition fluctuates, describe better and worse periods, their frequency, recovery time and support needed. If records from different professionals seem inconsistent, explain the context rather than sending conflicting reports without comment.
For age or residence issues, provide the relevant identity, citizenship or residency documents requested. For early intervention, evidence should explain why intervention is likely to reduce future support needs or improve functional capacity, according to the relevant criteria.
If you still disagree after the internal review
If the internal review confirms the original decision and the decision is externally reviewable, the next step may be an application to the Administrative Review Tribunal. The external review is separate from the NDIA. Follow the ART’s current application instructions and time limits stated in the decision letter or ART guidance.
Before lodging, organise the original decision, internal review decision, evidence already provided, new reports and a dated timeline. You can ask an advocate, legal service or trusted supporter to help. Do not assume the ART can consider an issue that was never part of the NDIA decision; explain the actual decision and what you say was wrong.
If you are not eligible for the NDIS, ask the NDIA partner about other disability or community supports available in your area. A declined NDIS application does not mean there are no services or supports to explore.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to request an internal review?
The NDIA’s current guidance says three months from the day you receive the written decision. Check the decision letter and current NDIA page for the exact deadline.
Can I send more evidence after lodging the review?
The NDIA may ask for more information. Its current guidance says it may give up to 28 days and you can ask for more time. Contact the NDIA if you need to supply evidence later.
Can I apply again instead of requesting a review?
Depending on the circumstances, a new application may be possible, but it does not automatically replace a review option or preserve its deadline. Ask the NDIA or an advocate which pathway fits your situation.
Official sources and further reading
- NDIA guide to decision reviews
- How to request a review of a decision
- NDIS eligibility requirements
- Administrative Review Tribunal
A practical next step
Write down the decision date, identify the disputed access requirement and contact the NDIA or an advocate before the three-month deadline. Keep copies of decisions, plan records and provider agreements. If a question affects eligibility, funding or a review deadline, confirm it directly with the NDIA or an appropriately qualified adviser.
